THE countdown has begun to the launch of the town centre’s new Tesco supermarket.

After a 12-month build, the Tesco Extra store will open its doors for the first time on Tuesday.

To mark the occasion, the supermarket is hosting a ceremony on Tuesday morning for customers to get their first glimpse inside the store.

Store manager Glyn Heppenstall said: "My staff and I can’t wait for the opening and we are looking forward to welcoming our new customers into the store. We hope the residents of Middleton and surrounding areas are happy with their new store."

It will be officially opened at 10am by Mr Heppenstall and a community champion chosen by the store after the public were asked for nominations for a local hero.

The winner of the Tesco local hero competition will be revealed on the opening morning when the chosen champion helps cut the ribbon to the store and is handed £200 shopping vouchers to spend inside.

Glyn said: "I am delighted to have a special resident of Middleton open the new store with me. We want to become involved with the local community and feel that this is a great start."

The store will also hand £1,000 to the Burnside Youth and Community Centre as part of the supermarket’s bid to integrate into the community.

Joan Aspinall, centre manager, said she and finance coordinator Kerry Edwards would be present at the launch to pick up their cheque. She said: "Everyone at the Burnside Community Centre is delighted to be receiving this donation. Kerry and I are looking forward to the opening and would like to thank Tesco for their support."

Mr Heppenstall, added: "I am so pleased that the Burnside Community Centre will be at the launch to receive the donation. They are a great local charity and it is a pleasure to be able to support them."

Customers will also be handed free cake, champagne and orange juice prior to the opening.